Defend, Challenge, or Qualify the Quote (Argumentative Writing Mini-Unit)

Your mission is simple:

Defend, challenge, or qualify the quotes given.

Quotes are a great tool for learning how to argue.

They are short, yet packed with meaning–and they can be interpreted in various ways.

Quotes give you the chance to “stretch” your thinking – and develop your ideas.

You need to respond to the following quotes with 150 words or more.

Make your arguments clear, and make your ideas shine.

Here is the EBOOK version of this unit.

Step 1:

HOW TO QUALIFY A QUOTE

To be a strong thinker, you must learn how to qualify arguments.

Agreeing or disagreeing with ideas is not enough. When you qualify an argument, you both agree and disagree with what is said.

Watch the video on qualifying arguments on the next page to get a full explanation. Then complete the worksheet given.

Step 2:

DEFEND, CHALLENGE, OR QUALIFY

Now that you know how to qualify an argument, your mission is to argue with the quotes given.

Be specific with your ideas, and dare to think for yourself.

Demonstrate a “mind at work.” The more you write, the more likely you will discover an idea

that is a gem.

Argue with Ralph Waldo Emerson

Step 3: Argue with Mark Twain

Step 4: Argue with Maya Angelou

Step 5: Argue with Horace

Step 6: Argue with J.R.R. Tolkien

Step 7: Argue with Adam Grant

Step 8:

ARGUE MULTIPLE QUOTES AT ONCE

Now that you have responded to individual quotes, your mission is to defend, challenge, or qualify quotes by a certain group of people, or on a specific topic.

Choose a page below that interests you, then respond to the quotes given.

Argue with a Billionaire

Step 9: Argue with a Scientist

Step 10: Argue with a Philosopher

Step 11: Argue About Freedom

Step 12: Argue with a President

Step 14: Argue About Education

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